What's the Buzz?
Fairfield Osborn Preserve
Sun, May 3, 1:30 pm
– 4:30 pm
Admission Fees: This is a free event.
Come join members of the Pacific Coast Entomological Society as they hear from student researchers and traverse the nine plant communities of Osborn Preserve to search for spectacular insects! These animals are more fascinating and important than most people understand: they play vital roles in ecosystems, including pollination, decomposition, and serving as food for other animals, communicate through pheromones, sounds, and even light. And though we hear most about harmful insects such as crop pests and those that carry human diseases, many are beneficial in ways we wouldn't know how to live without. After an hour-long research poster session at the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Learning Center, we'll set out on the preserve in groups to explore the vernal pool, meadow, oak woodland, creek community, and more to search for additions to our iNaturalist accounts!
Leaders
Pacific Coast Entomological Society, SSU student and alumni researchers, CEI staff
Logistics
SSU’s Fairfield Osborn Preserve is a 15-minute drive from SSU’s main campus.
The maximum hike is 3 miles with a 500-foot elevation gain, adaptable to participant abilities.
This event will be a leisurely walk rather than a hike.
- Fairfield Osborn Preserve is a 15-minute drive from Sonoma State's main campus, on Lichau Road in Penngrove. Driving directions are available here in English and in Spanish.
- Parking is limited so please consider carpooling, and park close together. Let us know if you plan to carpool so we can open more registration spots accordingly.
- The preserve gate will be unlocked 15-minutes prior to the start time of the event. The preserve gate will be locked 15-minutes after the start of the event time. It is not possible to join the event late or to leave the event early.
- We will meet outside at the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Learning Center, which is across the footbridge on the east side of the parking lot.
- A restroom, sink for hand-washing, and potable water are available on site.
- Participants must sign a waiver upon arrival.
- This event is appropriate for minors 12 years and older. All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian for the entire event (the parent's/guardian's email can be used for their registration). The educational content of this event is geared towards adults.
- Pets and smoking are not permitted.
- Due to narrow, rocky, unpaved trails, sturdy shoes for hiking are required and no strollers are permitted.
- This is a rain or shine event, though severe storms may cancel.
- No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate.
If you plan on bringing additional participants, please have them register as well.
What to Bring
Please bring a backpack, water bottle and snacks for the trail. We recommend layered clothing, covered shoes, a hat, rain gear and sun protection.
How to Sign Up
Register at the link above. Each participant should register separately. This event is free of charge.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.